Heather Kohler oversees daily operations at Gateway, as well as actively seeking consignments, coordinating sales and staff development. Heather works closely with our Marketing Director regarding marketing and public relations strategy and emerging markets. Heather is a licensed auctioneer in the state of Pennsylvania. A 2008 graduate of Mendenhall School of Auctioneering, she has been working for the company since 1998. Heather is a member of the National Auctioneer’s Association, Pennsylvania Auctioneers Association, the Rotary Club of Chambersburg and the Ladies Auxiliary VFW. She was awarded the 2018 Rotarian of the Year and is a graduate of Leadership Franklin County.

John Kohler, Jr. founded Gateway Gallery Auction with his wife Kay in 1991. John’s work over the past fifty years as a professional auctioneer and appraiser has earned him a deserved reputation as highly versatile antique generalist. While John has begun to transition from lead consignment specialist to an “of counsel” status; he continues to consult with clients to bring their collections to the marketplace while mentoring Heather in the oversight of daily operations. John continues to head the real estate division of the company.

A graduate of Shippensburg University, John began his career in auctioneering in 1969. He is a licensed auctioneer in the state of Pennsylvania; as well as a member of the National Auctioneer’s Association, the Pennsylvania Auctioneers Association, the VFW, and the Freemasons. An active member of the community, John has lent his auction and appraisal expertise to many charitable organizations over the years including Montessori Academy, Women in Need, Cumberland Valley School of Music, Civil War Round Table, Mercersburg Historical Society, Shippensburg Historical Society, Franklin County Historical Society and the Cumberland Valley Animal Shelter.

Kay Kohler is head of the administrative operations of Gateway Gallery Auction. She is responsible for all financial aspects of the company, web development and human resources. Her experience and knowledge in accounting, IT, and day-to-day business operations is a continual asset to the company.

James Harding brings 15 years of property handling and moving experience to his position at Gateway. Jim truly understands Gateway and is a perfect fit to help Gateway move forward. In line with Company values, Jim seeks to deliver outstanding auction services to clients.

Blair Young assists with administrative duties as well as planning, development and implementation of the company’s marketing strategies, communications and public relations activities including social networking and online platforms. Blair graduated from Shippensburg University in 2012 with a B.A. in communications/journalism with a focus on public relations. She served as a communications intern for Downtown Chambersburg, Inc. and worked abroad as a English language acquisition educator.

Emily Heckman assists with organizing and coordinating executive outreach and oversees various projects, including social media. Emily graduated from Shippensburg University in 2017 with a B.A. in History and a minor in Geography and Earth Science. She served with the Renfrew Institute for Cultural and Environmental Studies as an intern. In her spare time, she prepares and performs education programs for various National Park Service sites and the US Army Heritage and Education Center.

There are many people behind the scenes working on behalf of consignors and buyers. These team members work hard each and every week to bring you the most organized, professional, and enjoyable environment at our auctions.

William B. Earley joined Gateway Gallery Auction as a specialist consultant of Antiquarian and Out of Print books in 2013. Mr. Earley has worked with fine books and manuscripts, primarily through Twice Read Books in Chambersburg, PA, since 1977. He is widely regarded for his knowledge of local and Pennsylvania history, as well as Civil War and American literature. Mr. Earley has appraised and cataloged many noteworthy collections throughout his career as an independent bookseller and specialty consultant. He brings nearly 40 years of experience in the book business to Gateway Gallery. In addition, Mr. Earley’s enthusiasm for history and the printed word, ensure that consignors of antiquarian and out of prints books will receive knowledgeable, qualified service.

A graduate of Shippensburg University, Leedy also has been an adjunct instructor at Wilson College, teaching courses in journalism and ethics. Shippensburg University’s Communication/Journalism Department honored her with its 2012 Outstanding Alumni Award. She is a former board member of the Franklin County Historical Society/Kittochtinny. She serves as our sports cards and memorabilia consultant.